I’ve always loved Larabars for their simplicity and delicious flavors. But sometimes grabbing a box from the store just doesn’t cut it. That’s why I decided to create my own copycat recipe that’s just as easy and tasty.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1/2 cup raw almonds
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Equipment
To craft the perfect Larabar copycat, having the right equipment on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Food Processor
A reliable food processor is essential for finely chopping the dates and nuts, ensuring a smooth and cohesive mixture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key to balancing the flavors and achieving the desired texture in your bars.
- Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl provides ample space to combine all your ingredients thoroughly.
- 8×8 Inch Baking Dish
This size is ideal for spreading the mixture evenly and achieving the perfect thickness for your bars.
- Parchment Paper
Lining your baking dish with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out and ensures clean edges.
- Spatula
A sturdy spatula helps in pressing the mixture firmly into the dish and smoothing the top for an even finish.
- Sharp Knife
A sharp knife is necessary for cutting the bars into neat, bite-sized pieces once they’ve set.
Having these tools ready will streamline the process and help you create delicious, homemade Larabars with ease.
Directions
Let me share how I create my homemade Larabar copycat. Each step is designed to ensure the perfect texture and flavor.
Prep
- I gather all my ingredients and equipment. Make sure the dates are pitted and the almonds are raw for the best texture.
- Measure out 1 cup of pitted dates, 1/2 cup of raw almonds, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened shredded coconut, and 1 tablespoon of chia seeds.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt to the mixture.
Assemble
- In my trusty food processor, I combine the dates and almonds. I pulse them until they form a coarse mixture, being careful not to over-process.
- Next, I add the dried cranberries, shredded coconut, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sea salt. I pulse again until everything is well incorporated but still retains some texture.
- I transfer the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Using a spatula, I press the mixture firmly and evenly into the dish.
Set
- Once assembled, I cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator.
- I let it chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the bars to firm up perfectly.
- After setting, I lift the mixture out using the parchment paper and cut it into neat, bite-sized bars with a sharp knife.
Make-Ahead Tips
As a chef passionate about cooking, grilling, and baking, I’ve found that preparing Larabar copycats ahead of time not only saves you time but also enhances their flavors. Here are my top make-ahead tips to ensure your bars are always fresh and delicious.
Prepare Ingredients in Advance
Start by measuring and prepping all your ingredients a day before. Ensure dates are pitted and almonds are raw for the best texture. Store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. This step streamlines the mixing process, making assembly quick and easy.
Assemble and Store Properly
After mixing the ingredients, press the mixture firmly into your lined baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure an even layer. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or cover it with an airtight lid. Store it in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight. Chilling allows the bars to set perfectly, making them easier to cut.
Freeze for Extended Freshness
If you need to store the bars for longer, freezing is an excellent option. Once chilled, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw the bars in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying for the best texture.
Portion and Serve
Cut the chilled mixture into neat, bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife. For even portions, use a ruler or a pre-marked template on the baking dish. Store the cut bars in an airtight container. This method ensures each bar is uniformly sized and easy to grab on the go.
Enhance Flavors with Storage
Storing your Larabar copycats in the refrigerator or freezer can intensify their flavors. The cold temperature allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a richer taste profile. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt or a dash of cinnamon before storing to elevate the flavor even more.
Create a Variety Pack
Mix and match different dried fruits, nuts, and seeds to create a variety pack of Larabar copycats. Portion each flavor into separate containers or bags. This not only adds variety to your snack options but also makes sharing with friends and family effortless.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to one week | Ensure airtight containers are used |
| Freezer | Up to three months | Wrap individually and use freezer-safe bags |
| Room Temperature | 1-2 days | Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight |
Storage Instructions
To keep your Larabar copycats fresh and flavorful, follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigeration
- Place the bars in an airtight container.
- Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Refrigeration enhances the natural flavors.
- Freezing
- Arrange the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
- Thaw at room temperature for about an hour or enjoy them frozen for a firmer texture.
- Individual Wrapping
- Wrap each bar separately in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- This allows you to grab a single bar without exposing the others to air.
- Individual wrapping helps maintain freshness and makes storage more convenient.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Use airtight containers and separate layers with parchment |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze in a single layer first, then stack with separators |
| Individual Wraps | Varies | Wrap each bar separately for easy access and freshness |
By following these storage methods, you’ll ensure that your homemade Larabars stay delicious and ready to enjoy whenever cravings strike.
Conclusion
Making your own Larabar copycats is a game changer. It’s great to have control over the ingredients and tailor them to your tastes. Plus getting the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch is unbeatable. Whether you snack on them yourself or share with friends these bars are sure to be a hit. I hope you enjoy crafting and munching on your homemade treats as much as I do.
